1959 Citroen DS vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen DS would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 90 kg more than 1959 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Citroen DS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Citroen DS 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Citroen Mazda
Model DS MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1959 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1911 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 137 Nm 190 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1410 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1250 mm
Wheelbase Size 3140 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 48 L